Riyadh, March 21, 2024, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi reaffirmed the commitment of GCC member states to upholding the provisions outlined in the bloc's Declaration of Human Rights. This declaration guarantees rights that are enshrined in their respective constitutions and national legislation, as stated in a recent announcement by the GCC.
Albudaiwi specifically referenced Article 2 of the declaration, emphasizing that individuals are equal in human dignity, rights, and freedoms, and they are entitled to equal treatment under the law without discrimination based on factors such as origin, sex, religion, language, color, or any other form of discrimination.
The Secretary General's remarks were made in observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, commemorated annually on March 21. He underscored that the leaders of GCC countries are staunch advocates for human dignity and the protection of rights, highlighting their commitment to upholding these principles as prescribed by Islamic law, the United Nations Charter, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Furthermore, Albudaiwi acknowledged the pivotal role played by the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, a treaty ratified by all GCC member states. He noted that this convention has influenced the legislative and regulatory frameworks of GCC countries, leading to efforts aimed at combatting racial discrimination, fostering a culture of tolerance, coexistence, justice, and equality within their societies.
In his statement, he commended the GCC countries for their contributions toward achieving lasting peace, emphasizing the importance of equality and non-discrimination in this endeavor. He also called upon the international community to prioritize the elimination of all forms of discrimination by implementing rigorous measures aimed at addressing the root causes and conditions that perpetuate racial discrimination globally.
Albudaiwi concluded by addressing the dire situation in the Gaza Strip, condemning the persecution, discrimination, and racial segregation faced by the Palestinian people at the hands of Israeli occupying forces. He urged the international community to take decisive action to alleviate the suffering of Palestinians and put an end to the daily racial discrimination perpetrated against them.
